Schumer wants FDA to investigate chocolate snorting trend

Sniffing chocolate is legal, and is being marketed to young people. It’s a popular European partying trend that’s made its way to the United States.

Many people enjoy chocolate as a nice treat. But now, you can snort cocoa to get a buzz of energy.

It’s called Coco Loko.

“I basically saw what Europe was doing,” said Nick Anderson, the founder of Florida-based company Legal Lean, which sells Coco Loko. “There were no health issues. There, it’s been out two, three years. Everybody seems fine. It’s very popular. There’s really no negative publicity, so I felt we’re good to go.”

Sniffing chocolate is legal, and is being marketed to young people. It’s a popular European partying trend that’s made its way to the United States.

Some teens aren’t sure about this new way of getting a pick-me-up.

"I feel like there are so many other options of chocolate that you can eat with your mouth," said Kristin Smith.

Ben Haley said it reminds him too much of cocaine.

“I don’t want to put anything up my nose,” he said.

Others don’t see anything wrong with it.

"I already drink coffee,” said Tyrone Shelton. “So, yeah, I'm in!"

Sniffing a brown line of the chocolate -based powder is said to give users an energy rush, elevating their mood in an ecstasy-like euphoria.

“Anybody who just wants to party, dance and have a little extra energy. That's mostly our market." Anderson said.

Coco Loko is a mix of raw cacao powder, taurine and guarana among other ingredients used in energy drinks.

"Sounds interesting,” said Ben Haley. “Is it safe?"

Senator Chuck Schumer is giving push back on this chocolate snorting craze.

He’s is calling on the FDA to investigate calling it a “brazen example of ‘narcotic marketing’ – a product that is marketed like a drug, as well as made to be consumable like a drug while seeming cool to teens and young people.”

However, the FDA hasn't determined whether it has the authority to regulate the recreational product.

In a statement to ABC News:

“The FDA will need to evaluate the product labeling, marketing information, and/or any other information pertaining to the products intended use."’

“It's not FDA approved, right?” said Shelton. “So neither is half the stuff that you get from like GNC or whatever. You still take it. It's still somewhat good for your body."

Still some believe snorting chocolate sends a bad message to young people.

“If you have an addictive personality, I could see how it would be an easy gateway [to drugs],” said John Valentine. “Seems harmless, like, chocolate, who thinks you can get addicted to that? But whoever knows."

Coco Loko hasn't hit New York State shelves yet, but it is available online for $20 to $25.

It's also still unknown, by doctors, the effects of inhaling a chocolate powder, if any.